Creamy Broccoli Recipe

Prepare broccoli and aromatics

Wash and trim the broccoli into medium florets so they steam evenly (about 4 cups). Mince the garlic and finely chop the shallot. Pat everything dry.

Blanch broccoli

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add broccoli and cook 2 minutes until bright green and slightly tender but still crisp. Immediately drain and transfer to an ice bath (bowl of ice water) to stop cooking. Drain and set aside. Reserve 1/4 cup of the blanching water.

Sauté aromatics

In a large skillet or saucepan, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil and 1 tablespoon butter over medium heat. Add the chopped shallot and cook 1–2 minutes until translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook another 30 seconds until fragrant; do not brown.

Make roux

Push the shallot and garlic to the side and add the remaining 1 tablespoon butter. Once melted, sprinkle in the 2 tablespoons flour and whisk constantly for 1 minute to form a pale roux (this cooks the raw flour taste).

Add liquids

Slowly whisk in the milk, half-and-half, and stock, starting with a few tablespoons to loosen the roux, then gradually add the rest. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer while whisking so it thickens and becomes smooth, about 3–4 minutes.

Enrich and season

Reduce heat to low and whisk in the softened cream cheese until fully melted and incorporated. Stir in the grated Parmesan, Dijon mustard, 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt. Taste and adjust seasoning. If the sauce seems too thick, whisk in up to 1/4 cup reserved blanching water (or more milk) to reach a saucy consistency.

Combine broccoli with sauce

Add the drained broccoli to the skillet with the sauce and gently toss to coat. Cook together over low heat 1–2 minutes to warm the broccoli through and allow flavors to marry.

Finish

Stir in the lemon juice and remaining 1 tablespoon butter (if desired) for gloss. Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if using.

Serve

Transfer to a serving bowl and sprinkle the top with a little extra grated Parmesan. Serve immediately as a side dish.